The City of Angels, known for its Mediterranean climate, ethnic diversity, and the entertainment industry, is a sprawling Southern California city with many famous sites close to each other. One such site, Universal Studios, is a must-visit for anyone touring Los Angeles. However, the question often asked is, “How far is Downtown LA from Universal Studios?”
The distance from Downtown LA to Universal Studios is approximately 9.1 to 12 miles (14.6 to 19.3 kilometers) depending on the specific location in Downtown LA you are coming from. The typical drive time is around 18 minutes, but this can vary depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can take the B Line (Red) subway from 7th Street/Metro Center Station to Universal/Studio City Station, which takes about 20 minutes.
Exact Distance from Downtown LA to Universal Studios
The distance from Downtown LA to Universal Studios varies depending on the specific location in Downtown LA you are coming from. However, it is approximately 9.1 miles (14.6 kilometers) to 11-12 miles (17.7-19.3 kilometers) away. The total driving distance from Los Angeles, CA to Universal Studios Hollywood is 10 miles or 16 kilometers.
Typical Drive Time
The typical drive time from Downtown Los Angeles to Universal Studios varies depending on traffic conditions. However, it generally takes around 18 minutes to cover the distance of approximately 9.1 miles. Alternatively, you can take the B Line (Red) subway from 7th Street/Metro Center Station to Universal/Studio City Station, which takes about 20 minutes.
Primary Route Options
There are two primary routes to take from Downtown LA to Universal Studios: by subway and by car.
Subway
The most convenient public transportation option is to take the B Line (Red) subway from the 7th Street / Metro Center Station in Downtown LA to the Universal / Studio City Station. The total trip duration is approximately 39 minutes, and the ride fare is $1.75. From the Universal / Studio City Station, it’s a 17-minute walk (0.79 miles) to Universal Studios Hollywood.
Car
If you prefer driving, you can take the 101 Hollywood Freeway North from Downtown LA to Universal City. The driving distance is approximately 8 miles, and the travel time varies depending on traffic conditions.
Cost of Travel
The cost of travel between Downtown LA and Universal Studios varies depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Public Transport (Metro Red Line) costs $1.75 per one-way trip, estimated taxi fare is around $18.30, an UberX or Lyft ride is estimated to cost around $42, and if you choose to drive, you will need to consider the cost of gas and parking, which costs $30 per car at Universal Studios.
Landmarks and Points of Interest
On the way from Downtown LA to Universal Studios, you can visit landmarks like the Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, Hollywood & Highland, The Broad Museum, and Grand Central Market. These attractions offer a mix of cultural, historical, and entertainment experiences.
Traffic Situation
LA is known for its heavy traffic, especially during weekday morning and evening rush hours (7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.). Traffic heading into or out of Downtown L.A. and Hollywood can be heavy on weekend nights as well.
Tips and Tricks for Enjoyable Journey
To make your journey from Downtown LA to Universal Studios easier and more enjoyable, consider using public transportation, arriving early, downloading the Universal Studios Hollywood app, staying at a nearby hotel, taking advantage of the free tram at the Universal City Station, planning your visit during off-peak times, and exploring nearby attractions.
Best Time to Visit Universal Studios
The best time to visit Universal Studios in Los Angeles is during weekdays in the fall, winter, and spring, avoiding holidays and times when children are out of school. Arrive early and stay late to make the most of your visit.
By following these tips and understanding the specifics of the journey from Downtown LA to Universal Studios, you can plan a smooth and enjoyable trip. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address of Universal Studios Hollywood?
The address of Universal Studios Hollywood is 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608.
How much are tickets for Universal Studios Hollywood?
The price of tickets for Universal Studios Hollywood varies depending on the type of ticket and the date of visit. As of 2022, a one-day general admission ticket ranges from $109 to $139. For the most accurate pricing, please visit the official Universal Studios Hollywood website.
What are the operating hours of Universal Studios Hollywood?
Universal Studios Hollywood typically opens at 10:00 am and closes between 6:00 pm and 10:00 pm, depending on the season and day of the week. However, hours can change, so it’s best to check the official website before your visit.
Can I take public transportation from Downtown LA to Universal Studios at night?
Yes, the Metro Red Line operates until around midnight on weekdays and 2:00 am on weekends. However, it’s always a good idea to check the latest schedule on the LA Metro website.
Are there food and drink options available at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Yes, Universal Studios Hollywood offers a variety of dining options ranging from quick-service stands to sit-down restaurants. Visitors can find a wide selection of cuisines including American, Italian, Mexican, and more.
Is the Universal Studios Hollywood tour worth it?
The Universal Studios Hollywood tour is often considered a highlight of the park. It offers behind-the-scenes insights into movie making, includes several attractions like the famous Psycho House, War of the Worlds set, and King Kong 360 3-D experience. If you’re a film fan, it’s definitely worth considering.
